If you were born and raised in West Virginia, you are guaranteed to have several words that you use, maybe daily, that only West Virginians understand. These words have been passed down from our mamaws and papaws over the years. They are words that will most likely always be part of our culture. We say them without hesitation and just expect the person we are talking to understand.

These words may sound strange to some, but they are part of our history, culture and traditions.

1. Book Read
Flickr Walt Stone Burner
If someone is referred to as Book Read that means that they are well educated.
2. Crick
Facebook Shoulder and Arm Pain
Crick is a stiff or sore neck. "I have a crick in my neck."
3. Haint
Facebook Visit Jefferson County WV
Haint is used to refer to a ghost or haunted places.
4. Kin
Flickr Randen Pederson
Kin is used to say that one related to someone. "He is his kin."
5. Poke
Flickr Jerica cat
In West Virginia if you hear the word poke one is referring to a grocery bag, not jabbing someone with your finger.

Related Stories

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through West Virginia Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through West Virginia Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

 Escape To The Country When You Spend The Night On A Working West Virginia Farm

Escape To The Country When You Spend The Night On A Working West Virginia Farm

 This Mid-Century Modern West Virginia Motel Was Just Dubbed Having The Best Vintage Style

This Mid-Century Modern West Virginia Motel Was Just Dubbed Having The Best Vintage Style
6. Polecat
Flickr Boviate
A polecat is what many West Virginians call a skunk.
7. Sit a spell
Facebook Dan Mathews
Spell can mean two things in West Virginia. It can mean to stay a while. "I’ll visit for a spell." It can also mean feeling dizzy. "I stood up to quick and took a spell."
8. Reckon
Flickr thellr
When someone says reckon they mean that they guess. "I reckon that you are right."
9. Y'all
Flickr Project Healing Waters Fly
We’ve all used this one at one point in our lives. Y’all refers to everyone. "Y’all want to go fishing?"
10. Minner
Flickr Joe Naylor
Lots of West Virginians still use minner instead of minnow when talking about small creek fish often used as fishing bait.
11. Wasper
Flickr Blair Gannon
Wasper is what many West Virginians call wasps.

Did I miss your favorite West Virginia word? If so, share it with me in the comment section.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles